New Dairy Heifer Synchronization Protocol Sheet Now Available

New Dairy Heifer Synchronization Protocol Sheet Now Available

The Dairy Cattle Reproduction Council (DCRC) is pleased to introduce the dairy heifer synchronization protocol sheet, which outlines established synchronization protocols that may help producers improve heifer reproductive performance. In 2011 DCRC released the dairy cow synchronization protocol sheet to help veterinarians, consultants and dairy producers more effectively manage reproductive performance on-farm.

“The heifer protocol sheet was created based on the latest research and information available to the dairy industry,” says Dr. Todd Bilby, Chair of the DCRC Education Committee. “Our goal is to help veterinarians, industry professionals and producers make informed decisions related to heifer synchronization and reproductive programs.”

The heifer protocol sheet is intended to provide a foundation for discussion as veterinarians, consultants and dairy producers work together to make reproductive management decisions; the DCRC does not endorse one protocol over another, nor does DCRC endorse synchronization protocols over any of the other approaches to dairy cattle reproduction. The protocol sheets are reviewed annually by representatives from the DCRC and new protocols will be included as they are validated in controlled studies.

Sub-optimal reproductive performance in the nation’s dairy industry has prompted leading industry stakeholders to be proactive in tackling this issue head-on. Academicians who focus on reproduction and allied industries that support the dairy industry joined forces to create the Dairy Cattle Reproduction Council to raise the level of knowledge on issues critical to enhanced reproductive performance. The DCRC is focused on bringing together all sectors of the dairy industry—producers, consultants, researchers and allied industry professionals—for improved reproductive performance. This provides an unprecedented opportunity for all groups to work together takes dairy cattle reproduction to the next level.